The Federal Government and stakeholders have commenced plans to develop what has been described as Nigeria’s Just Transition Guideline as part of efforts to ensure that the country’s transition to an inclusive and equitable low-carbon economy.
Speaking at the inception workshop for the development of Nigeria’s Just Transition Guideline, the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Council on Climate Change Secretariat, Dr Nkiruka Maduekwe said that Nigeria’s climate policies must secure livelihoods, supports vulnerable communities, and fosters shared economic growth.
The workshop was Organised by the National Council on Climate Change Secretariat in collaboration with the International Labour Organisation, the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation and the United Nations Development Programme.
Maduekwe, who is also the Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Change, noted that climate-related policy frameworks like Nigeria’s National Development Plan, Energy Transition Plan, National Bioeconomy Strategic Framework and Climate Change Act, amongst others, provide a blueprint for inclusive and sustainable economic transformation.
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Maduekwe who was represented by Halima Bawa-Bwari explained that a Just Transition framework will ensure that the shift to renewable energy and a low-carbon future aligns with this vision by integrating policies that safeguard workers and communities, particularly those dependent on fossil fuel-based industries, anchored on sustainability, economic inclusion and resilience.
“Our commitment to Nationally Determined Contributions underscores Nigeria’s ambition to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while promoting green growth opportunities. The Just Transition Guideline we are developing will be instrumental in achieving these targets through socially responsible and economically viable strategies.
“Additionally, nature-based solutions will play a pivotal role in our transition by enhancing climate resilience, restoring ecosystems, and creating sustainable green jobs. By leveraging our natural assets, such as the mangroves we can ensure that climate action goes hand in hand with economic growth, improved food security, and environmental sustainability,” she said.
She added that the Just Transition is not solely environmental or economic as it requires the active collaboration of government, private sector stakeholders, civil society, and development partners to design policies that mitigate potential disruptions while maximising new opportunities.
Story was adapted from Punch.
